Washington (CNN) – The path to the White House used to begin often with a fancy public event where the candidate, flanked by his or her (usually his) loved ones, gave a full-throated declaration of his or her candidacy for president amid balloons, confetti and patriotically colored bunting.

Today, candidates usually are much more coy about wading into the presidential waters. Though some candidates do still hold traditional announcement events, most will first ease themselves into the process by creating what's called an exploratory committee.

soundoff(4 Responses)

Rudy NYC

The Republican candidates know that without a Democratic primary in progress their primaries are going to look like a Shark Week Marathon. They also know that, historically, the first candidates in to Republican primaries are usually the first ones to exit. The Republican candidates are unusually late in coming this season; later than they have ever been. I think it is almost comical watching them stand around waiting for the next guy to go on the ride first.

May 12, 2011 10:35 am at 10:35 am |

Four and The Door

I can't wait to see who the Democrats nominate. Usually it would be the current office-holder, but in the 2012 situation this could drag down every Senator, Representative, governor...all of the way down to dog catcher with a (D) behind their name. Obama's record will be baggage too heavy to keep the Democratic plane from even getting out of the gate.

May 12, 2011 10:53 am at 10:53 am |

B

What a very sad commentary that this country doesn't seem to be able to put forth more really competent people than what is showing up at the back door from the Republicans.

Iam not a Republican, but what a bunch of hacks they are presenting this time.

May 12, 2011 11:27 am at 11:27 am |

Rudy NYC

I can't wait to see who the Democrats nominate. Usually it would be the current office-holder, but in the 2012 situation this could drag down every Senator, Representative, governor...all of the way down to dog catcher with a (D) behind their name. Obama's record will be baggage too heavy to keep the Democratic plane from even getting out of the gate.
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The curent GOTP wouldn't nominate Reagan today. He would be marginalized to shreds for being a liberal.